Sandro Tonali’s Form Might Lure Him Away From Newcastle United Next Season

Newcastle United’s midfield engine, Sandro Tonali, is enjoying the most consistent spell of his Magpies career, and the timing could prove problematic for the club. The 25-year-old Italian has become the heartbeat of a midfield that, alongside Bruno Guimarães and Joelinton, is widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s top trios, rivalling the setups at Arsenal and Manchester City.

Tonali’s balance between defensive diligence and late attacking runs has made him the most complete component of that trio. In 97 appearances since arriving from AC Milan in 2023, he has already contributed nine goals and helped Newcastle lift the 2025 EFL Cup. Those numbers, coupled with the 2022 Serie A medal he claimed with Milan, have reportedly placed him on the shortlist of several heavyweight suitors.

Manchester United are understood to be monitoring the situation most closely. With Bruno Fernandes approaching his 32nd birthday and Casemiro expected to depart Old Trafford at season’s end, Erik ten Hag’s side are bracing for a major midfield rebuild. Sources indicate that United view Tonali as the ideal candidate to anchor their double-pivot alongside emerging star Kobbie Mainoo, offering greater defensive security than Fernandes while still providing line-breaking passes and third-man runs.

United have also scouted Newcastle’s Elliot Anderson, yet face stiff competition from Manchester City for the England-eligible holding midfielder. That battle could push the Red Devils toward a more experienced option, and Tonali’s age profile—entering his prime with potentially six peak seasons ahead—makes him an attractive long-term investment.

Newcastle, however, are desperate to keep their man. Sitting 10th in the table and six points adrift of the European places, Eddie Howe’s side know that a strong finish is essential to retain top talent. Club insiders admit that another surge of form from Tonali over the final months could trigger an approach too lucrative for either player or club to ignore.

While Italian players have rarely thrived at Old Trafford—Matteo Darmian remains the standout exception—Tonali’s two-year adaptation to English football suggests he could buck that trend. For now, Newcastle’s priority is clear: climb the table and secure continental qualification. Should they fall short, the vultures circling St James’ Park may soon swoop for their prized midfielder.